Royal mail barcoding

Royal Mail barcoding is a system used by Royal Mail, the UK's postal service, to automate the sorting and processing of mail. The system uses a unique barcode, known as a Royal Mail barcode, which is printed on the mailpiece along with the recipient's address.

Here's how it works:

  1. Barcode format: Royal Mail uses a specific barcode format, known as the Royal Mail barcode, which is a combination of letters and numbers. The barcode is 13 digits long and includes the following information:
    • The first 2 digits indicate the type of mail (e.g., 00 for standard mail)
    • The next 5 digits are the mailpiece's unique identifier
    • The next 2 digits indicate the mailpiece's weight
    • The final 4 digits are a checksum to ensure the barcode is valid
  2. Barcode placement: The Royal Mail barcode is typically printed in the top right-hand corner of the mailpiece, usually in a rectangular box.
  3. Scanning: When mail is processed at a Royal Mail sorting office, it is scanned using a barcode reader. The reader captures the barcode and sends the information to a computer system.
  4. Sorting: The computer system uses the barcode information to sort the mail into the correct bins and routes it to the next stage of processing.
  5. Tracking: The barcode also allows Royal Mail to track the mailpiece as it moves through the postal system, enabling them to provide tracking information to customers.

Benefits of Royal Mail barcoding:

  1. Faster processing: Barcoding enables Royal Mail to process mail more quickly and efficiently, reducing the time it takes for mail to reach its destination.
  2. Improved accuracy: Barcodes reduce the risk of human error, ensuring that mail is sorted and delivered correctly.
  3. Increased tracking: Barcodes provide a unique identifier for each mailpiece, making it easier for Royal Mail to track and trace mail.
  4. Cost savings: Barcoding can help reduce costs by minimizing the need for manual sorting and processing.

To use Royal Mail barcoding, you'll need to:

  1. Purchase a barcode printer: You'll need a printer that can print Royal Mail barcodes, such as a thermal printer.
  2. Obtain a Royal Mail account: You'll need a Royal Mail account to purchase barcode labels and access the Royal Mail online system.
  3. Design your mailpiece: Ensure your mailpiece is designed to accommodate the Royal Mail barcode and includes the correct information (e.g., recipient's address).
  4. Print the barcode: Use your barcode printer to print the Royal Mail barcode on your mailpiece.

Remember to follow Royal Mail's guidelines for barcode placement, formatting, and printing to ensure your mail is processed correctly.